[GLycemic control in the diabetic patient. Recommendations after the DCCT and UKPDI studies]

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder characterized by microvascular and cardiovascular complications that substantially increase the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. Several studies showed the association between the complications of diabetes and elevated blood glucose levels. Clinical trials have also demonstrated that treatment that lowers blood glucose reduces the risks of diabetic complications (mainly microvascular complications). The control of diabetes is assessed by frequent measurements of HbA1c. A reasonable goal in type 1 diabetes is a value of HbA1c < or = 7.2%. In type 2 diabetes, the optimal goal is a value of HbA1c < or = 6.5%, but a value < or = 8% seems to be an acceptable goal in these patients.